Thanks to the Internet, balletomania is a global phenomenon. YouTube viewing of classical dance from such far-flung spots as St. Petersburg is a boon to fans across the universe — equally, it aids dance critics and scholars. So when word spread that Vladimir Shklyarov, 39, had tumbled from a balcony five floors to his death on a barren sidewalk, just a few days ago, it was something to be shared by anguished fans everywhere.
Shklyarov (1985-2024), a principal dancer at the Mariinsky Theater, aka the Kirov Ballet, had a notably slight build and an unusually limber backbone. The turnout of his legs from the hip joint was narrow. But his buoyancy put him in a special class. And seen in these photos, so did beautiful high arches in his feet.
We have a special insight on Shklyarov to share. A Friend of Arts Meme (F.O.A.M.), Susan Jones, having traveled to Petersburg on special assignment one decade ago came away with an indelible impression of the young man. Jones is an Ashton stager and a longtime Ballet Mistress at American Ballet Theatre. Tell us, we asked Susan, how you came to know him.
“He was a complete treasure to work with,” Ms. Jones replied.
“I had come to St Petersburg to put Ashton’s Sylvia on at Mariinsky for only 2 weeks in April 2014. It had already been taught by a notator from Royal Ballet. She was unable to get released to get it on. A dream job for me! He was the least of my concerns. Very diligent in remembering what he had been taught, beautifully proficient, technically and artistically. He had a terrific working relationship with Vikka Tereshkina. His English was quite good, which was a blessing for me and he was always sweet, pleasant and very respectful to me and to the choreography.
He came to guest at ABT in 2015, and was as I remembered him. Absolutely won everyone’s heart with his adorable smile.“
Rest in peace, high-flying dancer!
Read more from our series: